New London -- This morning, members of the Peace and Justice Network of Southeastern Connecticut gathered downtown at the Soldiers & Sailors monument to protest government spending plans and cutbacks, affordable housing opportunities for the homeless, healthcare and the cost of a college education.

The group used President Barack Obama's appearance at the Coast Guard Academy this afternoon to send him a special message: keep your promises.

"He knows people are opposing him," said protest coordinator Joanne Sheehan of the War Resisters League. "A lot of us here voted for him but we voted for the promises he made in his campaign run that he has not kept. That's what we want out of you Barack."

Nearly 40 people arrived at the protest meeting point, with creative poster board signs in hand.

Some protestors carried diplomas and wore a cap and gown while others wore orange prisoner jumpsuits and pushed shopping carts to represent the homeless population. A group of women who call themselves The Raging Grannies wore colorful hats and skirts. They, along with protestors dressed in lab coats, were there to represent the cuts to healthcare.

Peace protesters begin their march from the Parade Plaza in downtown New London to the United States Coast Guard Academy Wednesday May 18, 2011.Tim Cook/The Day

Peace protesters gather on the Parade Plaza in downtown New London before marching to the United States Coast Guard Academy Wednesday May 18, 2011.Tim Cook/The Day